Stuff your turkey – we want money!

While the Christmas spirit is alive and on display in John Lewis adverts and temporary grottos across the country, it is yet to reach the majority of offices across the UK.

According to a survey published today by Harris and commissioned by US jobsite Glassdoor, just 4 per cent of respondents put an office party at the top of their festive wishlist. Instead, more than half of those surveyed want money in the form of a one of cash payment rather than have their company spend any money on putting on a Christmas party.

So while it’s supposed to be a time for Jingle Bells and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, it seems that it should in fact be the Beatle’s cover of Barrett Strong’s, Money (That’s What I Want).
The finding contrasts with last week’s advice from the Forum of Private Business (FPB) warning against cancelling end of year parties. FPB chief exec Phil Orford said: “They encourage communication, motivate staff and reward them at a time when other perks, such as pay rises and bonuses, for many just aren’t an option.”
And I agree with him. People may prefer a lump sum than a party for all, but it’s still better than a kick in the chestnuts, so make the most of it. And more importantly, a Christmas party is a great opportunity for businesses to try and engage in a good old negotiation with suppliers (by which I mean pubs and restaurants).